Councillors across Bedford Borough have been telling us about their favourite books throughout our Year of Reading.
And this week it’s the turn of Councillor Jon Abbott, who shared the story of an agricultural revolutionary who happens to be one of his lifelong heroes - Harry Ferguson: Inventor and Pioneer by Colin Fraser.
Councillor Abbott said; “I grew up around Massey Ferguson tractors, and from an early age I wanted to know everything about the man behind that famous name.
“It was that love of tractors that first drew me into agriculture and eventually led me to agricultural college.
“What has always fascinated me about Harry Ferguson is how his mind worked. He didn’t just use machinery - he questioned it, improved it, and found better ways of doing things. His invention of the three-point linkage system revolutionised farming and became the foundation of modern agricultural machinery.
“Reading about his drive and creativity completely fuelled my own curiosity about how things work and why we do things the way we do.”
Councillor Abbott shared his choice as part of Bedford Borough Council’s Year of Reading, a Borough-wide initiative taking place throughout 2025. It features a wide range of events and initiatives to celebrate and promote reading, including town centre performances, literary trails, and author readings.
He added; “Although I’m no longer directly involved in agriculture and now work in construction, that curiosity has never left me. I’ve always loved anything mechanical, and Ferguson’s story still inspires me to look for smarter, simpler, more effective solutions in whatever I’m working on.
“I also remain deeply connected to the rural community that shaped me. It’s a vital part of Britain’s identity – built on hard work, innovation, and a sense of belonging. Ferguson embodied those same values, showing how one person’s vision could change the world.
“This book reminds me where my passions began, and why I still hold such respect for the people and ideas that drive progress.”
To find out more or to get involved in Bedford Borough Council’s Year of Reading, visit www.bedford.gov.uk/yearofreading or email yearofreading@bedford.gov.uk
And remember - if you want to read a copy of Harry Ferguson: Inventor and Pioneer or any other book recommended by our councillors, you can always see if it's available in one of our libraries!
Visit or call any of our libraries during staffed hours and staff will help you to request titles, remembering to have your library card with you. You can also search the catalogue and request books on the library app or online catalogue using your library card number and PIN. If you’re not sure of your PIN, you can request a reminder. There is a charge for requesting books, but it’s free for children.
Library opening hours, PIN requests, and online catalogue is all accessible on the dedicated page on our website, and the app is called Bedfordshire Libraries in the App Store.